Prescriptions

If you are on repeat medications, you can request your medication in the following ways:

Prescriptions will be available in 2 working days excluding weekends and bank holidays.

Prescription Charges and Exemptions

Extensive exemption and remission arrangements protect those likely to have difficulty in paying charges (NHS prescription and dental charges, optical and hospital travel costs).

The NHS prescription charge is a flat-rate amount which successive Governments have thought it reasonable to charge for those who can afford to pay for their medicines.  Prescription prepayment certificates (PPCs) offer real savings for people who need extensive medication.

These charges apply in England only. In Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales prescriptions are free of charge.

If you will have to pay for four or more prescription items in three months, or more than 14 items in 12 months, you may find it cheaper to buy a PPC.

There is further information about prescription exemptions and fees on the NHS website

Medication Reviews

Patients on repeat medication will be asked to see a doctor, nurse practitioner or practice nurse at least once a year to review these regular medications and notification should appear on your repeat slip.

Over the counter medicines

From 31st May 2018, a range of medicines that were available to buy over the counter from pharmacies and supermarkets are no longer routinely prescribed by GP surgeries. These are medicines associated with a number of minor, short term health conditions, which either get better by themselves or can easily be treated yourself.

The change applies to medicines for a total of 35 conditions. These includes, for example, medicines for coughs, colds, infrequent cold sores of the lip, mild to moderate hay fever, mild cystitis, nappy rash, warts and verrucas, earwax and head lice. It also applies to a range of vitamins and minerals, unless from medical tests it is clear that the person does not have sufficient natural levels.

For the full list, please see: www.gloucestershireccg.nhs.uk/otc